Story
Children in rural Zimbabwe often live near wildlife areas yet do not learn about their natural heritage. Environmental education not only reduces poaching but also offers training and future opportunities in the conservation field. I am a qualified environmental science teacher (in the UK) who manages environmental education training for Zimbabwean teachers, as well as teaching children in rural Zimbabwe about conservation. We hope to inspire the wildlife managers of the future and help teachers to design their own resources and instil confidence in their knowledge of the natural world on their doorstep. I work closely with the local community and Imvelo Safaris, based close to Hwange National Park, and consult with the local teachers as to how best help their schools with regards to conservation and science education. The workshops also help the children with their national exams and we are looking to improve their grades. Zimbabwe is really beginning to move forwards in their commitment to wildlife, and their enthusiastic and hard working teachers are very receptive to learning more about their wildlife and how to save it for future generations. I am looking to fund all the training and teaching materials as well as publishing a bespoke environmental education work book for the local Hwange schools.